JayPatton88 For a fan not only of "The Band" , "The Band's final show coinciding with the closing of the famous "Winterland" music hall. A must see not only for fan's of "The Band" but music fans in general. Amongst members of "The Band" (Levon Helm,Rick Danko,Garth Hudson,Richard Samuel and the reason for the groups final show,Robbie Robertson) "The Kast Waltz" has a packed show of other all star musicians of the era. From Ronnie Hawkins who gave "The Band" their first job; "The Waltz" ( "The Band's" final show and closing of Winterland) Eric Clapton,Paul Butterfield,Joni Mitchell,"The Staple Singers",Muddy Waters, Dr.John and Neil Diamond ( the most criticized choice for this film/show ) director Martin Scorcese combines "The Band's" final show ( with all members Robbie Robertson! ) the closing of the famous "Winterland" and some history behind one of the longest touring bands of all time, save "The Grateful Dead", as a Rockumentary, A ten star film, a must see!

freekvw Martin Scorsese makes one of the most interesting concert-films of all time. He doesn't only show a band onstage, he shows their stories surrounding their break-up and gives a unique insight in the musical talents and the passion that drives them. It also has some wonderful guest performances from artists like Neil Young and Bob Dylan. Without a doubt this is one of the most important documents in music history.

st-shot As long as The Band and it's highly talented roster of guest stars are on stage The Last Waltz soars. Director Martin Scorsese's preparation for this one take only scene opportunity of the concert portion has cameras in the right place as well as a crystal clear audio track to capture many performers at the top of their game on a chandelier draped stage bathed in the same lush colorful light found on the damp New York streets of Taxi Driver.One by one rock stars from the previous decade and beyond take the stage and belt out a tune. Bob Dylan, Neal Young, Van Morrison, Eric Clapton even Neil Diamond and especially Dr. John doing "Such a Night" have bring down the house numbers. The night's outstanding performers are The Band itself. A group of five multi talented musicians whose passion for the art form put commercial success on the back burner in favor of just making music they electrify the stage with driving renditions of "Cripple Creek" "Mystery Train" and others. Drummer Levon Helm's powerful vocals are the group's high point despite attempts by lead guitarist Robbie Robertson to upstage. Robertson foolishly attempts to take on Eric Clapton in a battle of axes who in a calm, cool respectful manner vanquishes Robbie's swaggering.Offstage the members fail to ignite with Scorsese's interviewing skills scattered and reverential. The boys are mostly shy (in the case of Rick Danko, high) and modest about their accomplishments with the exception of poser Robertson who has plenty of nothing to say to fan Scorsese.There are two beautifully performed non-concert pieces featuring The Staples and Emmy Lou Harris adding to the musical feast that not only provides superior musical entertainment but also serves as a valuable timepiece to the end of an era. The dark age of Disco was about to begin.

alr126 I first saw this film on its original theatrical release in Dallas, TX, 1978. Now watching it for the umpeenth time now, 2007, in Philadelphia, PA and this is one of those "timeless classics" that never gets old. The artists far outweigh any of the new talent coming into play currently. Please do not misunderstand me, I am a huge fan of Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, etc., but, I think that Clapton, The Band, Dylan, EmmyLou Harris, Joni Mitchell, et al, are the essence of music. Perhaps because I grew up with them, As I sit here on my sofa listening to Dylan, it brings back memories of numerous concerts, etc, that just cn't be relived nowadays. I find this film a true trip into the past of fond memories and classic music. This film will remain forever a classic history of Rock and Roll legends and should not be missed.